how to release from police custody

In the United Arab Emirates an “absconding” report filed by an employer triggers the immigration authorities to detain the employee until the matter is resolved. Even if you had a mutual termination with the former employer, the police will keep you in custody until the report is withdrawn or a court decides that you are not a flight‑risk. The quickest way to secure your release is to act on three fronts at the same time: legal representation, diplomatic assistance, and documentary proof of the settlement.

First, engage a qualified UAE labour‑law attorney who is experienced with immigration and absconding cases. Your lawyer can file an urgent request for bail or a provisional release with the police station or the relevant immigration department, arguing that you are not a flight‑risk, that you have a fixed address in the UAE, and that you possess the financial means to satisfy any potential penalties. The lawyer will also prepare a formal objection to the absconding report, attaching the written agreement you signed with the former employer (termination letter, settlement agreement, or any correspondence confirming that the departure was consensual). If the employer’s report was filed in error or without proper justification, the lawyer can demand that the employer withdraw it or submit a counter‑statement to the authorities.

Second, contact your embassy or consular mission as soon as possible. Consular officials can intervene on your behalf by verifying your identity, confirming that you have a residence, and sometimes liaising with the immigration police to expedite the release. While the embassy cannot overturn the legal process, it can provide a letter of support, help you locate reputable local counsel, and, in some cases, request that the authorities consider humanitarian or diplomatic grounds for your release.

Finally, gather all supporting documents that demonstrate you are not attempting to evade your obligations: a copy of the employment termination agreement, any settlement receipts, proof of ongoing employment or a job offer in the UAE, utility bills or tenancy contracts showing a stable residence, and a passport‑size photo with your current visa details. Submit these documents to both your lawyer and, through him/her, to the immigration office as part of the bail or withdrawal request. If the employer refuses to retract the report, the authorities may still release you on bail while the dispute is adjudicated, but having clear evidence of the mutual agreement greatly strengthens your case and reduces the likelihood of a prolonged detention.

Sincerely,
Ascendence International Consulting

Based on the information provided, if an absconding report was filed despite a mutual agreement with the previous employer, the report may be challenged under UAE labor and immigration laws. Release from immigration custody is possible once the absconding case is officially cancelled. To proceed, the following steps are generally required: 1) Filing a formal complaint with MOHRE to dispute the absconding report. 2) Obtaining written evidence of the mutual agreement or settlement with the employer, if available. 3) Submitting a request to Immigration authorities for cancellation of the absconding report. 4) Once cancelled, applying for release from custody and regularization or exit procedures. Our firm can represent you before MOHRE and Immigration authorities to expedite the cancellation of the absconding report and secure your release in accordance with UAE law. Please contact our office at your earliest convenience so we may review your documents and take immediate legal action.

If you were detained due to an absconding (runaway) report, release depends on clearing the immigration and labour status linked to your previous employer.

Why this happens
When an employer files an absconding report, immigration authorities may detain the worker until the case is resolved, even if there was a verbal or mutual understanding.

Steps to secure release
1) Confirm the absconding report status with immigration or the police station.
2) Contact the previous employer and request withdrawal of the absconding report.
3) If the employer agrees, they must cancel the report in the immigration/MOHRE system.
4) If the employer refuses, you can file a complaint with MOHRE (private sector) or the relevant authority supervising the employer.
5) Provide proof such as resignation acceptance, settlement agreement, or messages confirming mutual separation.

Possible outcomes
- Withdrawal of the report → release and visa status correction.
- Case review by authorities → fine, visa cancellation, or grace period to exit or transfer sponsorship.

Important tips
- Remain cooperative with authorities.
- Avoid signing documents you do not understand.
- Request translation if needed.
- Seek legal assistance for faster resolution.

HHS Lawyers can coordinate with immigration authorities, communicate with the employer, and help secure your release and status correction. You can also claim a free 15-minute consultation with our expert by sending your enquiry on WhatsApp.